The Ultimate Guide To Kalsubai The 'Everest Of Maharashtra'

In the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, at a prodigious elevation of 1646 metres (5400 feet) lies the highest peak of the state: Kalsubai, also known as the ‘Everest of Maharashtra’. Surrounded by huge mountain ranges and lush greenery, it is one of the most picturesque mountains in India, and the perfect way to take in its beauty is via a trek that goes through beautiful plateaus and forests. Here’s our ultimate guide to Kalsubai, a trekker’s dream!

Nestled in the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kalsubai (besides being a mecca for trekkers, of course) is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers as well. Exploring it is a unique experience, and definitely one not to be missed.

The trek

Scaling Kalsubai has become something of a rite of passage for ardent trekkers. The trek is moderately difficult, passing through lush paddy fields, jungles, small streams, highlands and rocky terrains, and takes around 3-4 hours, with short intervals in between, to reach the crest of Kalsubai.

At the start, the trail is easy, but it gets a bit arduous on the way up. However, for safe ascent, iron ladders have been built along the vertical hill slopes. The descent is down the same route.

Pro tip: If trekking during monsoon, be careful while climbing, as the path tends to get slippery, so cling to the rocks or ropes for a reasonable grip!

What to expect at the summit

As you reach the summit of Kalsubai, expect to witness the panoramic views of the area encompassing mountains, lush greenery and beautiful water bodies – these views are sure to make you forget all about the strenuous trek. Soak in the breathtakingly beautiful views of the Bhandardara backwaters and the nearby hills – Harishchandragad, Ratangad, Harihargad, and Alang-Madan-Kulang forts.

You’ll also find a temple atop the peak, which is dedicated to the local deity, Kalsubai. Every Tuesday and Thursday, the temple priest performs the prayer, which draws devotees in hordes.

Day or night trekking?

Both day and night trekking options are available. If you opt for day trek, aim to be at the pinnacle at dusk when the sun sets behind the lush mountains, creating a magically beautiful landscape – it’s a sight to behold! And, if you’re considering a night trek, aim to be at the peak at dawn as you’ll be making a memory of a lifetime, watching the sun gloriously rise behind the mountains whilst the mist covers the valley below.

Pro tip: If you wish to stay for a day or two to explore the area, there are Homestay options available at the Bari village.

What to pack

The trail is punctuated with snack and tea stalls, so you’re unlikely to go hungry. Be sure to carry a water bottle, first-aid kit and rain wear (if trekking in monsoon). And it goes without saying that sturdy trekking shoes are a must.

Organized tours

It is best to go for an organized tour as it covers everything, from transport to accommodation, meals and an experienced guide. Some of the best tours you can opt for include Mumbai Travellers, Adventure Nation, Treks and Trails India and Thrillophilia.

How to get there

The nearest railway station is Igatpuri, which is approximately 19 miles away from the Bari village (the base village). You can take a cab/taxi from the station and it will take less than an hour to reach the base village. Alternatively, you can reach the base village directly via road from Mumbai.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.